Photoshop includes a huge number of tools, and here we expose some of its less well-known features and reveal new ways to use some familiar favourites. Some will help you achieve results faster – so you can concentrate on fine-tuning your compositions – while others unlock the possibilities of what can be achieved in Adobe's flagship tool.

Many of these tips will work in Photoshop CS or later – though some require newer versions. We've noted these in the tips concerned.

1. Brush up on clouds
The best way to create realistic clouds in Photoshop using brushes is to select the Texture tab in the Brushes panel (F5), then, for the pattern, use Clouds 128x128 (it's in the predefined list named 'Patterns'). Also make the Scale much bigger than the brush size and use Color Burn for the blending mode.

2. Lighten up
To create a streaming light-ray effect, use the Gradient Tool: in the Gradient Editor, set the Gradient Type to Noise with 100% roughness, then use the Angle Gradient.

3. Use Smart Objects
Introduced in CS2, Smart Objects are layers that can be edited on-the-fly simply by double-clicking their layer icon. Once changes have been saved, the objects update automatically along with any duplicates (or instances). To paste artwork from Illustrator as a Smart Object, check the relevant option.

5. Be a better selector
Creating selections accurately is an essential Photoshop skill if you're going to perform tricky compositing tasks. The Refine Edge command and its cousin, Refine Mask (both introduced in CS5), make the process less tedious and enable you to extract difficult subjects – such as wispy hair.

The screen was particularly good. It is bright and visible from most angles, however heat is an issue, particularly around the Windows button on the front, and on the back where the battery housing is located.

My first impression after unboxing the Q702 is that it is a nice looking unit. Styling is somewhat minimalist but very effective. The tablet part, once detached, has a nice weight, and no buttons or switches are located in awkward or intrusive positions.

Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of IDG Communications is prohibited. Copyright 2013 IDG Communications.
ABN 14 001 592 650. All rights reserved.

Contact Us

With over 25 years of brand awareness and credibility, Good Gear Guide (formerly PC World Australia), consistently delivers editorial excellence through award-winning content and trusted product reviews.